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Car Key Fob Replacement Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment at the dealership and the cost is depending on the make of your vehicle. Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how: Battery If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a unique sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however — like any device that spends most of its time in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older. If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one. Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to see if the chip can be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need. You may be able do the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require special equipment to program. Programming Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually available online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that you have new batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob operates. To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for a time frame generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your car's system. Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate, it will need specific programming. This can only be done by an authorized dealer. Many dealerships provide this service for a flat price, but you might be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They usually have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to do the work. Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If auto car key replacement have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment. Dealerships If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and could save you money. A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without using a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now standard on a variety of vehicles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle. The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. These are usually found at an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key. A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method. You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you. Locksmiths When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as costly as you think if your key fob has some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking. Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements to these types of keys. Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option to buy the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership uses. Certain automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's manuals or online. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one. If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional. However, this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacement. For those who own German automobiles, for instance one, with a “flip” function that is akin to a switchblade knife could only get replacement fobs from the dealership. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company with the equipment necessary to do this.